Hoover Police warn of increase in phone, email scams

HOOVER, Ala. (WBRC) - The Hoover Police Department is warning folks about a recent increase in phone and email scams.

Police say in these incidents, the victim usually receives an ominous threat that can only be resolved by sending money to them.

Officials want you to know: legitimate government business isn’t conducted via Bitcoin or Apple gift cards.

In one case, Hoover PD says a victim was recently contacted by telephone claiming to be law enforcement. They told the victim there was a warrant out for their arrest for missing jury duty, and the only way to avoid going to jail was to pay cash in person.

Authorities say no law enforcement officer would ever arrange to meet you in a parking lot or come to your home to collect cash to pay a fine.

If you get a phone call, email, or text from someone claiming to be a government agency and they solicit money, you should hang up the phone or delete the message.

Never give personal information to a stranger over the phone, especially when it’s a received call or message. That includes sending money, gift card info, or Bitcoin info.

If someone says they’ve ‘hacked’ your computer or phone, police say take it to a trusted repair shop instead of sending money or a gift card to a stranger.

If you are uncertain, call a family member or friend and ask their opinion. Hoover PD says you can also call them to ask at 205-822-5300.

Police say if the call sounds suspicious or the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

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